UEFA has confirmed a significant rule change to Champions League squad registration just days before the 2025/26 group stage kicks off.

For the first time, six English teams will feature in Europe’s elite competition this season. Tottenham and Arsenal open their campaigns on Tuesday, followed by Chelsea and Liverpool on Wednesday, with Manchester City and Newcastle wrapping up the action on Thursday.

The Europa League begins next week, while the Europa Conference League starts in early October. As always, clubs were required to submit their 25-man squads after the summer transfer window closed, leaving several high-profile players excluded. Spurs’ £30m signing Mathys Tel, Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa, and Chelsea’s Facundo Buononotte were all notable omissions.

The New UEFA Rule

On Thursday, UEFA’s Executive Committee approved an amendment allowing clubs to replace one outfield player during the group stage if they suffer a long-term injury or illness. The change can be made up until Matchday 6, the final round of league-phase fixtures.

UEFA explained:

“The Executive Committee approved an amendment to the 2025/26 UEFA men’s club competitions’ regulations to admit the temporary replacement of a maximum of one outfield player with long-term injury or illness during the league phase until matchday 6 included. The reasoning for the adaptation is to ensure that squad lists are not unfairly reduced and players are safeguarded from additional workload pressure.”

This adjustment could give clubs more flexibility. For instance, Chelsea may be able to replace Liam Delap, sidelined until November. Spurs could call on Mathys Tel if their attack suffers an injury blow, while Arsenal might yet find space for Gabriel Jesus should he regain full fitness.

Other UEFA Announcements

UEFA also confirmed future finals venues. Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium will host the 2027 Champions League final, while the Women’s Champions League final will be staged at the National Stadium in Warsaw, Poland